Hike Through The Most Bizarre Landscapes And See 900-Foot Tall Rock Formations On This Utah Trail
By Courtnie Erickson|Published June 14, 2022
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Courtnie Erickson
Author
From Southern Utah to the Panhandle in Idaho, Courtnie Erickson has lived in what she believes are the best (and the most beautiful!) areas in the country. She graduated with a journalism degree from Utah State University and has more than 15 years of professional writing experience. You’ll likely see her with a Dr. Pepper in her hand and a pair of running shoes on her feet. Courtnie is a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState.
The desert landscape near Moab and the Colorado and Utah state line is truly unique. It is filled with interesting rock formations, natural bridges, arches, plateaus, and so much more. One of the natural features in this area that stands tall and high above the rest is Fisher Towers. While far away they make quite the impression, up close, they are even more breathtaking. Fortunately, you can experience it all on the Fisher Towers Trail in Utah.
The Fisher Towers are located in the heart of a bizarre desert landscape. These towers are made of red Cutler sandstone and then topped with a much harder Moekkopi sandstone. Many of these towers stand hundreds of feet in the air, with the largest, The Titan, standing approximately 900-feet tall.
To experience Fisher Towers up close, you will have a 4.4-mile round-trip trail to conquer. This hike is quite extraordinary as you will weave in and out of many sandstone spires, into canyons, down a ladder, and more. This is one Utah hike that is hard to forget.
You will find the Fisher Towers trailhead off of Fisher Towers Road near Moab. You will come to a trail sign and parking lot, letting you know that you’ve found the beginning of this incredible adventure.
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While this trail is short, you will want to come prepared, particularly if tackling this hike during the summer months.
You will be in direct sun and out in the desert for the majority of this hike. Wear adequate shoes for the sandy trail and bring ample sun protection. Make sure you have plenty of water for every member of your party as well.
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The trail is moderate in difficulty with slight elevation gain. However, if the distance doesn’t bother you, most hikers should be able to tackle this trail with ease.
During the beginning stretch of this hike, you will trek downhill, cross Slickrock, and enter a small canyon. Give yourself plenty of time as you trek over the various terrain.
Not far into the hike, you’ll wind past Ancient Art, one of the most unique and distinctive spires in this group of towers. You'll know you are in the right place as the top of one tower looks like a corkscrew.
You’ll also come to the Cottontail Tower, which stands at an impressive 800-feet tall. Take a break here or even turn around if you desire — you can’t go wrong with either option.
If you choose to continue on the Fisher Towers Trail, be prepared to climb down a ladder into a small canyon. While dogs are allowed on this trail, this part of the trail may become difficult for your furry friend.
You’ll eventually come to The Titan, a 900-foot tower that is the tallest Fisher Tower. Keep an eye out for rock climbers on your way as this is a challenging and popular climbing destination.
If you decide to complete this trail in its entirety, you’ll eventually come to some of the most beautiful views of Fisher Towers, Colorado River Canyon, and the surrounding desert. This is one scenic hike where the landscape is certainly bizarre but it is scenic every step of the way.
This hiking trail in Utah is accessible all year. However, it is extremely popular for hikers and rock climbers so please be respectful of others as you explore this trail and the surrounding area.
Have you ever explored the Fisher Towers Trail near Moab? If so, we’d love to hear all about your adventure in the comments!
If you want another short and beautiful hiking trail near Moab to explore (and one that is not found inside a national park), check out the Jewell Tibbets Arch Trail, which is perfect for an afternoon adventure.
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